Justification:
Listed as Critically Endangered because of a serious population decline, estimated to be more than 80% over the last three generations, inferred from habitat destruction and degradation; and because its area of occupancy is less than 10 km², its distribution is severely fragmented, and there is continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat.

The species inhabits loess plains with sparse shrub cover. The females may have between three and seven eggs. It is not found in agricultural areas. Animals hide under stones and in holes in the ground, and the species digs burrows under the 'green crust' substrate.

Much of the habitat of this species (especially the 'green crust') has been destroyed by intensive agriculture, urbanisation, and trampling by grazing animals. It is relatively easily caught by birds, such as falcons, egrets and shrikes, and the abundance of these predatory birds in the area is increasing with ongoing tree planting.